Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy raised two questions on planning and funding. The planning process has taken place in Northern Ireland and I play no part in it. It is an impartial planning process, as ours is. Four reports were required to follow up on the issues that led to the current state of the project. With regard to the fourth report, which is outstanding, public consultation began on 15 October and finished on 28 November.

Now these four reports are completed, the planning authorities need to make a decision on how they will move the project forward.

The funding commitments of the Northern Ireland Executive are a matter for it. I understand this is an issue to which the Northern Ireland Minister for Regional Development, Danny Kennedy, responded recently. This Government’s commitment for funding for 2015 and 2016 is still clear.

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